A recent media report about the Church of England’s Redress Scheme contained inaccuracies and misleading information, which we are sorry has caused distress to survivors.
The purpose of the Redress Scheme, which has been commissioned by the Archbishops’ Council, is to support survivors and victims to rebuild their lives and to demonstrate in tangible and practical ways that the Church is truly sorry for its past failings relating to safeguarding.
It is important to clarify that when the scheme opens, it will operate wholly independently from the Church. I know, from speaking to survivors and victims, that every experience of abuse is different. The scheme will carefully consider the unique lived experience of everyone affected by Church-related abuse to ensure that every application is treated fairly and consistently, by trained professionals. Last night’s media report gave a misleading impression of those who may or may not be eligible.
The scheme is not yet open but once operational, will offer survivors an opportunity to share their experiences and ensure they are treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. Detailed information about the scheme can be found at churchofengland.org/redress.
